Politics: Bill Proposed to Cap Carbon Emissions

Despite having to face a Republican controlled Congress and House of Representatives, Rep. Chris Van Hollen, (D-Maryland), plans to reintroduce legislation to cap carbon emissions this week. The timing of this legislation is no coincidence, Van Hollen believes reintroducing the legislation will push 2016 presidential candidates to discuss the issue. “Our goal is to keep attention focused on this issue as we head into this congressional session, and also into the presidential election in 2016,” said Van Hollen. The bill proposes to cap carbon pollution and reduce carbon dioxide emissions gradually and steadily. Additionally, if passed, it will serve to auction carbon pollution permits, “to the first sellers of oil, coal and natural gas into the U.S. market, and return 100% of the auction proceeds electronically each quarter to every American with a valid Social Security number,” he said. Though Van Hollen knows a win is unlikely, he has promised to work with any interested parties.